PINEHURST, N.C. -- The United States Golf Association has approved the use of distance-measuring devices in all of its amateur championships and their qualifying events, starting this year. The USGAs championship committee announced the decision on Thursday at its annual meeting. The USGA said the ruling reflects a joint decision with the Royal and Ancient Golf Club of St. Andrews. The committee voted to adopt an optional local rule that has been available under the Rules of Golf since 2006. Distance-measuring devices will remain banned at the U.S. Open, U.S. Womens Open and U.S. Senior Open and their qualifying events. "We have seen progressive developments in technologies available to golfers who seek to improve their playing performance and enjoyment that also maintain the essential elements of the game," said Thomas J. OToole Jr., USGA vice-president and chairman of the committee. "It is in this spirit that we are allowing the use of distance-measuring devices in our amateur competitions." James Paxton Jersey . -- The Toronto Maple Leafs are tightening the race for second place in the Atlantic Division. Richie Zisk Mariners Jersey . Forward Iker Muniain scored the winner in the 70th minute after Bilbaos incessant pressure recovered the ball and sparked a counterattack inside Barcelonas half. Neymar was once again tagged to pick up Messis goal-scoring duties, but when he wasnt frustrated by slippery footing Bilbaos defence got the better of him. https://www.cheapmariners.com/1605k-ichiro-suzuki-jersey-mariners.html . (AP) -- The head of the committee that developed Major League Baseballs plan to expand instant replay says he is optimistic the system will be in place this season, even though owners and unions for players and umpires have yet to approve. Zac Grotz Mariners Jersey .com) - Theres nothing better for a team than to send out the staff ace in the most important game of the season. Ricardo Sanchez Jersey . THE THUNDER & PACERS BENCHES: In a nutshell, not impressive at all.TORONTO -- The reigning Canadian mens curling champions have a new skip for the next Tim Hortons Brier. John Morris will join forces with third Pat Simmons, second Carter Rycroft and lead Nolan Thiessen as Team Canada makes its debut at the 2015 Brier in Calgary. He replaces Kevin Koe, who left the champions to form a new team with third Marc Kennedy, second Brent Laing and lead Ben Hebert. "Were thrilled to be able to bring aboard a player of Johns calibre," Simmons said in a statement. "Of course, weve always had a great deal of respect for John as a player and a rival, and were excited about what we can do together on the ice next season." At the 2014 Brier, Morris skipped the B.C. team (third Jim Cotter, second Tyrel Griffith, lead Rick Sawatsky) that lost to Koes Alberta foursome in the final.dddddddddddd Morris said he will play a limited schedule during the 2014-15 season due to work commitments. "My plan was to take the 2014-15 season off as I move ahead in my career as a firefighter," said Morris, who lives in Chestermere, Alta., just outside of Calgary. "But to be able to play for Team Canada, and considering the Alberta events are so close to home, it was hard to pass up on this offer. I talked it over with Jim, Tyrel and Rick and they were very understanding. I cant thank them enough for the season we had, and I wish them nothing but the very best going forward." ' ' '